Does Your Child Have Flexible or Rigid Flat Feet? – Proven Ways to Help Treat Flat Feet!

July 16, 2025 Flat Feet Juan Valenzuela 0 - Comments

Has your child been diagnosed with flat feet? Don’t panic—but don’t ignore it, either. Acting early can help prevent future foot, leg, or lower back pain. Flat feet, also known as pes planus, pes valgus, or collapsed arches, can be either flexible or rigid—and knowing which type your child has is crucial for proper treatment. As an experienced shoe fitter, I’ve seen firsthand how the right shoes can make a world of difference. In this article, I’ll help you understand the difference between flexible and rigid flat feet and share my top picks for supportive shoes that keep kids comfortable and active.

Does Your Child Have Flexible or Rigid Flat Feet?

There are two types of flat feet: rigid and flexible. It is important to distinguish what type of feet your child has to know what approach to take. I am going to make things simple for you and try to explain to you the difference between these two in a simple way.

toddler-with-healthy-arch
Flexible flat feet is the most common type of flat feet in children. The arch can be seen when the foot heel is elevated and no weight is applied to the foot.
In a flexible flat foot, the arch disappears when a child stands on full foot. Watch what happens when the child is standing and putting pressure on the foot.

Sometimes, something as simple as the right pair of shoes can make a huge difference for a child with flexible flat feet—helping prevent their arches from collapsing and allowing them to walk and run with better alignment. But don’t just take my word for it—let me show you how the right footwear can truly transform your child’s comfort and movement!

Kids with Flexible Flat Feet – What a Difference a Shoe Can Make!

toddler-with-flat-feet
A child with flexible flat feet standing barefoot. Can you see how their arches collapse and their feet roll inward?
toddler-wearing-supportive-shoes
Now, check out the same child wearing the supportive shoes I recommend. See how much straighter their feet look? These shoes feature a sturdy outsole and a firm heel counter, working together to keep the arches from collapsing and stop the feet from rolling inward.

Rigid Flat Feet

When children have a rigid flat foot the arch is not present, whether bearing weight or not. Rigid flat feet is usually a result of abnormal formation of the joint and/or bones but can result from neglected flexible flat feet.

When children have rigid flat feet, it creates a chain reaction of misalignment up the rest of their bodies. This results in abnormal strain and pressure acting not only on their feet, but on their ankles, knees, hips and back. Rigid flat feet can lead your child to develop bunions, heel pain, knee pain, hip pain, shin splints, and weight gain — as your child might refuse to participate in activities.

child-with-rigid-flat-feet
The arch cannot be seen when the foot heel is elevated and no weight is applied to the foot.
child-with-flat-feet
The arch also cannot be seen when the child stands on full foot.

Kids with Rigid Flat Feet – What a Difference a Shoe Can Make!

child-with-flat-feet-and-a-strong-degree-of-pronation
Here’s an example of a child with rigid flat feet. Notice how the arches have collapsed and the ankles appear misaligned? This shows how rigid flat feet can affect overall foot and leg posture.
child-with-flat-feet-wearing-supportive-shoes
Now see the same child wearing the supportive shoes I recommend. These sneakers help keep the feet and ankles aligned, preventing them from collapsing inward. They’re not orthopedic—just well-designed regular shoes offering superior support.

Key Shoe Features for Children with Flexible or Rigid Flat Feet

supportive-shoes-for-children-with-flat-feet
Substantial outsoles play a key role in keeping your child’s feet properly aligned, stopping them from collapsing or rolling inward. Let me show you just how much of a difference this support makes by comparing one of my recommended shoes to another style.
children's-shoes-with-straight-lasts
Straight lasts are essential for keeping your child’s forefoot properly aligned and preventing it from splaying outward. Avoid shoes with overly curved lasts, as they often lack heel stability—a common issue in many Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour styles. Check out the image below to see the difference for yourself!
children's-shoes-with-heel-support
Firm heel counters are crucial for giving your child’s ankles and heels the support they need, helping prevent the feet from collapsing or rolling inward. Treating flat feet effectively starts at the heel, and a firm heel counter guides your child’s feet into proper alignment for healthy growth.

How Do I Know Which Shoes Work Better for Kids with Flat Feet?

I have been working for a specialized children’s shoe store for over 10 years. I help children with flat feet or other foot conditions daily. I truly believe that the correct type of shoes can be life-changing, and surgery or other invasive procedures should always be used as a last resort.

Every shoe I recommend is designed to fit various foot shapes comfortably. Be sure to check the details under each shoe to see whether it’s best suited for flexible or rigid flat feet, so you can find the perfect match for your child’s needs. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Supportive Shoes for Kids with Rigid or Flexible Flat Feet

My approach focuses on fitting children with supportive shoes—the least invasive and most effective way to help their feet. This not only keeps kids properly aligned but also lets them strengthen their muscles naturally as they move and grow.

1. Shoe Style 990v6 by New Balance

This is the absolute best shoe if your child has rigid or flexible flat feet. The robust outsole helps distribute weight evenly across the foot and reduces strain on the muscles and joints. The downside that many parents complain about is the high price tag.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
  • Order with laces on the New Balance website or Amazon
  • Velcro version also available on the New Balance website or Amazon
  • Accommodates medium, wide, or extra wide feet
  • Firm heel counters, stable base of support, and semi-straight lasts
  • Ideal for moderate to strong cases of pronation
  • Removable insoles
  • Sizing tip: Order a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

2. Shoe Style Gabi and Alvin by Memo (Orthopedic Shoe)

These orthopedic shoes are specifically designed to improve foot posture and comfort. The higher price point is a common complaint parents have but the investment in orthopedic shoes is often justified by their specialized design and effectiveness in addressing flat feet.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers and little kids
  • Order the model Gabi or Alvin on Amazon
  • Also available in a Mary Jane style and a version for older kids called Memo Polo
  • Accommodates medium and wide feet
  • Ideal for moderate to strong cases of pronation
  • High-top design with stiff heel counters
  • Sizing tip: Order a half size larger than your child’s current foot size. Refer to Memo sizing chart

3. Shoe Style Elliott by Stride Rite

These high-top booties by Stride Rite offer excellent support and a comfortable fit, making them a top choice for kids with flat feet. This shoe is affordable and despite the limited color choices, the Elliott shoes are celebrated for their supportive qualities and comfortable fit.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers
  • Order on Amazon
  • Accommodates medium, wide, or extra wide feet
  • Ideal for mild to moderate cases of pronation
  • 100% leather construction
  • High-top design provides extra ankle support
  • APMA Seal of Acceptance
  • Sizing tip: Order a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

4. Shoe style 574 by New Balance

This New Balance shoe combines style with functionality. It offers solid support and cushioning, making it suitable for kids with flat feet. The shoe is offered at a lower price point.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
  • Order on Amazon or the New Balance website
  • Also available with laces on the New Balance website or Amazon
  • Accommodates medium, wide, or extra wide feet
  • Ideal for mild to moderate cases of pronation
  • Firm heel counters
  • APMA Seal of Acceptance
  • Sizing tip: Order a half size larger than your child’s current foot size

5. Shoe Style Tracks by Timberland

The sturdy design ensures that children can enjoy outdoor activities without compromising on foot stability or comfort, but this style is slightly heavier than my other shoe recommendations.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers and little kids
  • Order on Amazon
  • Accommodates medium or wide feet
  • Ideal for mild to moderate cases of pronation
  • High-top design for extra ankle support
  • Water-friendly construction
  • Sizing tip: Order a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

6. Shoe Style Cohesion by Saucony

These shoes are ideal for kids with flat feet, as they offer excellent cushioning and stability. The affordable pricing also makes them accessible to a wide range of families.

Key Features

  • Available for little and big kids
  • Order on Amazon
  • Also available with laces on Amazon
  • Accommodates medium or wide feet
  • Ideal for mild to moderate cases of pronation
  • Firm heel counters and stable base of support
  • Sizing tip: Order a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

7. Shoe Style Fresh Foam Arishi v4 by New Balance

This is a versatile shoe that provides a soft and comfortable fit while supporting your child’s flat feet. Families appreciate how this shoe is offered at a very reasonable price.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
  • Order on the New Balance website or Amazon
  • Also available with laces on Amazon or the New Balance website
  • Accommodates medium, wide, or extra wide feet
  • Ideal for mild to moderate cases of pronation
  • Semi-firm heel counters
  • Sizing tip: Order a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

8. Shoe Style 2002/1906 by New Balance

The 2002 model by New Balance is another great option for flat-footed children at a more affordable price point than the 990v6.

Key Features

  • Available for toddlers, little, and big kids
  • Order the 2002 or 1906 on the New Balance website
  • Accommodates medium or wide feet
  • Ideal for moderate to strong cases of pronation
  • Firm heel counters, stable base of support, and semi-straight lasts
  • Sizing tip: Order a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

9. Shoe Style Cross Em Up by Adidas

The Cross Em Up by Adidas is a basketball-inspired shoe that offers great support for flat-footed kids. The versatility of the shoe makes it suitable for both sports and everyday wear, adding value for parents looking for multi-functional footwear.

Key Features

  • Available for little and big kids
  • Order on Amazon
  • Accommodates medium or wide feet
  • Ideal for mild to moderate cases of pronation
  • High-top design for additional ankle support
  • Versatile — suitable for sports and everyday wear
  • Sizing tip: Order a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

10. Shoe Style GT-1000 by Asics

The GT-1000 by Asics is a popular choice for kids who require extra stability and support. This specific shoe is capable of fitting children with narrow feet.

Key Features

  • Available for little and big kids
  • Order on Amazon
  • Accommodates narrow or medium feet
  • Ideal for mild to moderate cases of pronation
  • Firm heel counters, stable base of support, and semi-straight lasts
  • Sizing tip: Order a whole size larger than your child’s current foot size

Get in Touch for a Personalized Suggestion

Feel free to reach out for specific shoe recommendations tailored to your child’s flat feet. I am here to help guide you in making the best choice for your little one’s needs.

How to Retrieve Your Child’s Exact Foot Length and Shape

I’ve developed a virtual shoe fitting service that makes it easy to measure your child’s shoe size right from home. With this tool, you’ll quickly discover whether your child has narrow, medium, wide, or extra wide feet—and I can even help determine if they have a high instep, ensuring the perfect fit for comfort and support.

What Helps Kids with Flat Feet?

The two most effective treatments for kids with flat feet are supportive shoes and orthotics. Whether a child has to wear an orthotic inside of the shoes depends on the degree of the condition and whether the child is experiencing significant foot and leg pain.

Supportive New Balance shoe for kids with heel pain.
An image of a pair of New Balance supportive kids’ shoes to help treat flat feet.

Do Flat Feet Get Worse Over Time?

If left untreated flat feet can worsen over time. Your child’s feet may gradually worsen to the point that many of the tendons and ligaments in the foot and ankle are simply overworking. If left untreated, flat feet can lead to the following conditions:

  • Joint pain
  • Muscle exhaustion/weakness
  • Improper walking pattern
  • Possible toe walking
  • Poor foot development

Can You Fix Your Kids’ Flat Feet? – Let’s Straighten Up Some Rumors!

It’s important for parents to know that no exercises, special shoes, or shoe inserts will mold their child’s arch. However, the correct type of shoes can significantly improve their child’s walking gait and overall posture.

I have seen many pediatricians who treat flat feet with a roll of the eyes. Parents should always follow and trust their instincts, and if you notice your child walking or running differently, start by making sure that your child is wearing supportive shoes.

Is your child dealing with flexible or rigid flat feet? I’d love to hear your experience! Share in the comments below whether supportive shoes have helped improve your child’s walking gait, or if you’ve had to explore using orthotics for extra support.